Let’s face it – whenever we see the word “formal” on an event invite, a part of us freaks out. After all, they’re essentially telling you to dress your absolute best! Sometimes, renting just won’t cut it, buying cheap dresses runs the risk of a wardrobe malfunction, and shopping online won’t guarantee you the perfect fit.
If you’re a Melbournite with a fancy event coming up, you’re in luck! When it comes to gowns and evening dresses, Melbourne has some of the best formal dress shops around.
So before you start googling “dress rental near me”, we’ve gone ahead and listed the four best shops around Melbourne that sell some amazing formal wear.
RELATED: A Style Guide To Business Formal Wear For Women
4. Vivienna Lorikeet
When you put together a team of skilled seamstresses and designers who have the common goal of making everyone look beautiful, you get a brand like Vivienna Lorikeet. Not only does the brand have a collection of stunning long formal dresses, it’s also one of the few shops that tailor to plus size women.
Maya Gown $AUD 3,700.00
Drawing inspiration from classic Hollywood glamour, the Maya gown is gonna make you feel like a superstar. Fully sequined for maximum oomph, it also has a bold front slit to show off a little bit of skin.
Grace $AUD 1,999.00
Look as good as gold in this beautiful, hand-beaded cocktail dress. It’s versatile enough to be used for a girls’ night out or a black-tie dinner!
Caroline $AUD 999.00
If you like standing out from the crowd, then the Caroline dress is perfect for you. Not only is it fully sequined, it also provides a fantastic silhouette for any body type.
3. Vivid
While it doesn’t have its own physical store, we can’t help but add Vivid to our list. The Melbourne-based online shop showcases a massive selection of ready-to-wear and custom-made gowns. Featuring designer dresses from brands like Elle Zeitoune, Love Honor, and its own label, Vivid promises the latest in fashion and style.
So whether you’re looking for a sexy bodycon dress or just cutesy deb dresses in Melbourne, Vivid should be right up your alley.
Lucia $AUD 460.00
Take the glam level up a notch in this Lucia gown. Its sultry cut and luminous fabric will make you the belle of any ball.
Mon Cherie $AUD 399.00
Be every kind of sexy with the Mon Cherie Sequin Gown. The combination of its deep neckline, bodycon fit, and centre slit is sure to turn heads wherever it is worn.
Alessia Gown $AUD 415.00
Why be a tall glass of water when you can be a tall glass of champagne? The Alessia Gown is bold, elegant, and fitting for almost any occasion.
2. White Runway
Looking for the most stylish and sophisticated dresses? Don’t leave White Runway out of your list. Even though the name suggests that it’s a bridal dress shop, White Runway offers more than just wedding dresses. You can work a catwalk with their cocktail dresses or soak in glamour with their evening gowns. Melbourne just got a lot more stylish thanks to White Runway!
Another plus is that they also do bespoke tailoring! So if you’re looking custom-made formal dress, hire their tailors and set an appointment now.
Garett Backless Gown $AUD 359.95
Formal at the front and party at the back, this gorgeous full-length gown by Elle Zeitoune features a deep neckline to flaunt all of your assets.
London Gown $AUD 289.00
This dusty-rose coloured number is just the right amount of flirty! The London Gown’s sweetheart neckline becomes just a little bit spicier when put together with its mermaid-style silhouette and lace-up bodice.
1. Bariano
Bariano started with a single vision: to be a world leader in fashion trends. Today, it provides an escape to a world of femininity, appeal, and elegance. In 2006, they launched their label in select boutiques in Melbourne and in the same year, unveiled their first flagship store in Melbourne’s Chapel Street. Since then, Bariano has opened five other stores all over Melbourne’s fashion districts. Bariano promises to deliver a personalised styling experience, making it one of the best formal dress shops in Melbourne.
Gene Strapless Ball Gown $439.95
Prepare to steal the show with the Gene Strapless Ball Gown! If its hot pink hue isn’t enough to make you fall in love with it, its luxe fabric and classic silhouette definitely will. Pair it with an up-do and a sexy pair of heels and you’ll have yourself a killer outfit!
Anais A-line Satin Gown $AUD 379.95
There’s a reason that florals never go out of style. It’s fun, feminine, and fresh! Just look at the gorgeous print on the Anais A-line Satin Gown – it makes the dress perfect for an easy breezy beach wedding or a formal party out in the sun.
Elsie Sweetheart $AUD 359.95
Be the definition of playful elegance in this strapless, high-low sequin dress. The muted pink colour compliments any skin tone and the elaborate detailing can cause anyone to do a double-take!
Conclusion
We hope you found a dress that suits your style, your figure, and the event. Formal wear is just an elevated form of your everyday look and should still be an expression of yourself! Always remember to prioritise personal style over fashion trends, because there’s nothing more beautiful than the confidence that comes with wearing something you’re completely comfortable in!
RELATED: Fad Or Fab? Does The ‘Cinderella Diet’ Really Work?
